Former NFL linebacker Emmanuel Acho will host this year's edition of "The Bachelor: After the Final Rose," he announced Saturday.
IT’S OFFICIAL: I’ve accepted the Rose & am honored to be hosting the @bachelorabc After the Final Rose this year.
— Emmanuel Acho (@EmmanuelAcho) February 27, 2021
It’s been a pivotal season & this episode will be one of the most storied shows in its history. Empathy is needed and change is coming. See y’all then! 🌹 ❤️ pic.twitter.com/eWBXT6Kv6J
Acho, who also works as an analyst for Fox Sports 1 and hosts his own YouTube series called "Uncomfortable Conversations With a Black Man," will make his debut during the special episode on March 15 following "The Bachelor" season finale.
Bachelor nation, please welcome me with open arms! I promise to do y’all proud! ❤️🌹 pic.twitter.com/ZsbkCEiRzl
— Emmanuel Acho (@EmmanuelAcho) February 28, 2021
The 30-year-old will replace the show's longtime host Chris Harrison, who recently stepped away from the role after defending a contestant for attending a plantation-themed event and liking racially insensitive posts on social media.
Acho played in the NFL from 2012-15, spending time with the Philadelphia Eagles, Cleveland Browns, and New York Giants.